We are delighted to announce that six of our barristers have been ranked in Chambers and Partners’ High Net Worth Guide 2025. Ian Clarke KC, Clifford Darton KC, Julia Beer, Lydia Pemberton, George Woodhead and Chris de Beneducci are all ranked in the Chancery: Traditional category for their continued impressive work within this area.
Ian Clarke KC, now seven years ranked, was praised as “an exceptional advocate that can work through complex information. He has great persuasive skills and his knowledge of traditional Chancery and trusts is second to none.” One referee described Ian as someone they “would recommend highly. He never sits on the fence and takes a clear view on things.” Ian has also been described as “fantastic on his feet. A trial advocate who is able to swiftly navigate the judge around the case and build trust quickly.”
Clifford Darton KC, now four years ranked, was characterised as “excellent all round. He is as good on his feet as he is on paper.” One referee stated that Clifford “possesses one of the sharpest minds that I have ever come across. If I ever found myself in trouble, he is the man I would want in my corner.” One referee highlighted Clifford’s advocacy skills as “second to none and he is an absolute genius with witnesses at cross examination.”
Julia Beer has been ranked in the High Net Worth rankings for the fourth year. Julia was praised for her “experience on company and partnerships and contentious probate is very useful. She deals with pressure really well, and holds her own in front of silks. She spots points that others might not.” Julia was also described as “very reliable, incisive and her contentious probate work is excellent” as well as “very good on her feet and on cross-examination.”
Lydia Pemberton enters the High Net Worth rankings for the first year. One referee stated “Lydia Pemberton can be relied upon to deliver timely, concise, commercially aware advice.” Another referee expressed “Lydia’s efficiency and quality of work is of an exceptionally high standard. She is highly reliable and so insightful.” Lydia was described as “very compelling and strong in court and really fights your corner for you. She is good to work with because she just understands the clients.”
George Woodhead also enters the High Net Worth rankings for the first year. George was praised as “an exceptional barrister who is destined for great things. He has a calm demeanour. He backs that up with technical prowess and he is always on top of the documents.” One referee credited him as a “really natural advocate. I have been very impressed by him. He is pragmatic, has got good judgement and is strong on all things.”
Chris de Beneducci, now two years ranked, was described as “very comfortable on his feet, deals with a difficult case well and his advocacy is very assured. He’s very pragmatic to deal with.” as well as “user friendly, easy to get along with, and very collaborative and proactive. He is ultimately very keen and good at his job. ” One referee stated “I would describe him as a very capable junior who is a real rising star. He is very good and I would have no hesitation recommending him. He is good with clients, very user friendly.”
Our congratulations go to Ian, Clifford, Julia, Lydia, George and Chris, as well as all other individuals ranked this year, and our thanks go to Chambers and Partners for their diligent research in compiling this year’s guide. A special thank you to our referees for taking the time to provide positive feedback.
Chambers & Partners High Net Worth Guide 2025 – Selborne Chambers
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